Prevalence of celiac disease in Asia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and AimCeliac disease (CD) is emerging in Asia. While a few population-based studies from Asia have reported a prevalence of CD from 0.1% to 1.3%, the exact prevalence of CD in Asia is not known. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the prevalence of CD in Asia. MethodsOn search of literature, we found 1213 articles, of which 18 articles were included. Diagnosis of CD was based on European Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition guidelines. ResultsPooled sero-prevalence of CD in Asia was 1.6% in 47873 individuals based on positive anti-tissue transglutaminase and/or anti-endomysial antibodies. Pooled prevalence of biopsy proven CD in Asia was 0.5% in 43955 individuals. The prevalence of CD among women was higher than in men (0.5% vs 0.4%, P=0.04). The pooled prevalence of CD was 0.3% in Iran, 0.5% in Turkey, 0.6% in India, and 0.7% in Israel. The pooled prevalence of CD was significantly higher in Israel and India as compared with that in Iran. ConclusionsCeliac disease is not uncommon in Asia, and the sero-prevalence and prevalence of CD in Asia are 1.6% and 0.5%, respectively. The prevalence of CD varies with gender and geographic location. There is a need for population-based prevalence studies in many Asian countries to properly estimate the burden of CD in Asia.